A HEARTBROKEN 89-year-old Ipswich widower today pleaded for thieves to return the rings his late wife wore when she died.

A HEARTBROKEN 89-year-old Ipswich widower today pleaded for thieves to return the rings his late wife wore when she died.

Two conmen targeted the pensioner at his home in Wallace Road, Ipswich, duping the man into letting them into the house.

While inside they stole three rings belonging to his wife of 51 years, as well as his wallet which contained money.

However, it is the theft of his beloved wife's jewellery that has left the elderly man distraught.

He said: “I was broken-hearted about the rings. I treasured them more then anything. I can't describe how important they are. My wife was wearing them when she died.

“I wanted to keep them in her memory and our lives together. We were married for over 50 years and I loved my wife more than anything else.

“Her rings mean more to me than the money I lost and I just hope someone will have the goodness to let me have them back.”

The pair of conmen pretended to be officials who needed to check the water at the house.

As one distracted him, the other searched the house.

It was only after they left his home that the OAP realised the wallet, cash and jewellery was missing.

The jewellery, which all belonged to the elderly victim's late wife, was a signet ring with the initials LM inscribed on it, a gold wedding band and a diamond and gold engagement ring.

The couple got married in 1953 and were together until the pensioner's wife died five years ago.

The burglary happened between 2pm-2.30pm on Monday, July 6.

Police have now re-issued their appeal for help in tracing the men.

The first was described as white, with tanned skin, aged in his 50s, about 5ft 8ins tall, of stocky build, with short dark hair, clean shaven and a round face.

He was wearing an orange fluorescent jacket and dark trousers.

His accomplice was white, aged 18-19 years old, about 5ft 9ins tall, of slim build and wearing pale blue jeans and a pale blue top.

Anyone with information is urged to contact detective constable Stephanie Andrews-Pearce at Ipswich CID on 01473 613500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.